• Women of all cultures have enjoyed wearing jewelry for over 100,000 years, according to BBC News. In 2006, BBC News reported that an international research team discovered the oldest known pieces of jewelry made by humans in Israel and Algeria. For those 100,000 years, cultures all over the world have used jewelry for self adornment and currency. Precious metals, gemstones and synthetic materials affect how much the jewelry is worth.
  
  

Pendant Necklaces

• According to Leiden University, necklaces often display pendants that reflect someone's religious affiliation or their social status. If your friend or significant other is a religious person, buy her a necklace with a crucifix, pentacle or the Star of David so that she can express her religious affinity. If she is interested in astrology, give her a necklace with her astrological symbol.
  
  

Birthstones

• Buy a piece of jewelry for a friend or loved one that features her unique birthstone. You can buy necklaces, bracelets, earrings, rings and other body jewelry featuring your friend's birthstone. If you are buying jewelry for a mother, then purchase a ring or a bracelet that features the birthstone of each of her children.
  
  

Friendship Bracelets

• Laura Torres, author of the book "Friendship Bracelets," writes that friendship bracelets are a Central Native American tradition. They consist of embroidery floss, thread and beads. According to tradition, a friend must wear a bracelet until the threads wear out and the bracelet falls off naturally. Removing it sooner means the friendship will end.
  
  

Make Your Own

• Even if you have never made your own jewelry before, put a unique twist on a jewelry gift by creating the jewelry yourself. Buy beads, chains and other accents at a craft store and experiment with unique designs and style. You can also use safety pins and fabrics to create bracelets, necklaces and pouches.
  
  

Pins, Brooches and Charms

• If your wife or friend has a particular hobby or interest, like horses or dancing, then buy her a pin, brooch or a charm that features this interest. If she doesn't have a charm bracelet, then purchase one for her and start it with a charm featuring her hobby. Pins and brooches allow women to express themselves by pinning the brooches on their jackets and scarves.